On March 14, over 800 young people from Western Province gathered in Karongi District for the 'Rubyiruko Menya Amateka Yawe' (Youth, Know Your History) programme. Organised by the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Arts, the event aimed to educate the youth about Rwanda’s past, particularly the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, and to foster a deeper understanding of unity, patriotism, and national heritage.

Participants from Karongi, Rubavu, Rusizi, Ngororero, Nyamasheke, and Rutsiro engaged in enlightening discussions on Rwanda’s history, the destructive impact of divisive ideologies, and their role in safeguarding the future of their country.

Destroying a nation starts with its leader

Minister of Youth and Arts, Dr Jean Nepo Abdallah Utumatwishima, delivered a powerful message to the youth, stressing the importance of understanding history to prevent future destruction. He explained that those who seek to destabilise a country often begin by targeting its leaders, using Rwanda’s colonial past as a vivid example.

"When someone wants to destroy a country, they start with its leader. This is what happened during the colonial period when Belgium’s ‘divide and rule’ policy sought to weaken our leadership and sow division,” he said.

He cited examples of King Yuhi V Musinga who was removed from power in 1931 and exiled to Congo, where he died. He was replaced with his son Mutara III Rudahigwa, a man who stood for national unity and Rwanda’s independence. He was killed in July 1959 in Bujumbura.

Dr Utumatwishima emphasised that the seeds of division planted by the Belgian colonisers during this period were significant factors that led to the genocide against the Tutsi. He reminded the youth that Rwanda’s future depends on their ability to reject such divisive ideologies and continue the work of building unity.

The minister also praised the role of the RPF-Inkotanyi in stopping the Genocide and leading the national reconstruction process, highlighting the party’s critical contributions to Rwanda’s current progress.

Standing against divisionism

The Governor of Western Province, Jean Bosco Ntibitura, also addressed the youth, particularly focusing on the ongoing threat posed by the FDLR, a terrorist militia based in DR Congo, composed of those responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. He underscored the critical role of young people in understanding the history of the genocide and working to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.

"You, the youth, must learn from our history and ensure that it never repeats. Your responsibility is to promote unity and contribute to the development of our country. You are the key to the future of Rwanda,” he said.

Governor Ntibitura stressed that the youth must take an active role in fostering unity, reconciliation and community resilience, which are essential for the nation’s continued progress and stability.

Youth inspired to take action

Participants shared their reflections on the programme and expressed their commitment to national unity.

"I have learned so much about our country’s history. The lessons about unity and reconciliation were powerful. I now realise that we must all work together to protect our nation and ensure its future,” said Jalia Igiraneza, a youth volunteer from Rutsiro District.

Theopiste Mugemanyi, a youth participant from Rubengera Sector, echoed her sentiments.

"These discussions have taught me more about our country’s past, and we have been reminded of the importance of loving Rwanda and all Rwandans. We must all contribute to our country’s development,” she said.

The 'Rubyiruko Menya Amateka Yawe' programme has been an ongoing initiative to educate youth from across Rwanda about the nation’s history and the importance of unity. After the successful implementation of the programme in Nyagatare, which brought together youth from Eastern Province, Gisagara District with youth from the Southern Province, and Karongi District, which hosted youth from the Western Province, the next stops will include the Northern Province and the City of Kigali.

This programme remains a key initiative in Rwanda’s ongoing effort to empower the youth, promote unity, and ensure the legacy of peace and reconciliation continues to thrive across the nation.